Chef Bart Vandaele is the chef-owner of Belga Cafe, as well as a recent Top Chef contestant and a knight in the order of Leopold II (seriously). Photograph by Andrew Propp.
A main dining room looks over the open kitchen. Off to the side, an eight-person chef’s counter will eventually feature a separate tasting menu. Photograph by Andrew Propp.
The Spanish-made Josper oven is currently the only of its kind in Washington, and imparts a smoky flavor to seafood and meat. Photograph by Andrew Propp.
The men’s room is painted with sausages, while the ladies get what may be too much information about cow udders. Photograph by Andrew Propp.
Good date-night spot: You can snuggle on a comfy couch in the subterranean lounge and dining area over beers. Photograph by Andrew Propp.
The same menu is available throughout, whether you want to bask in the daylight at the upstairs bar or hide away in the lounge. Photograph by Andrew Propp.
